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Fusion energy: Progress, partnerships, and the path to deployment
Over the past decade, fusion energy has moved decisively from scientific aspiration toward a credible pathway to a new energy technology. Thanks to long-term federal support, we have significantly advanced our fundamental understanding of plasma physics—the behavior of the superheated gases at the heart of fusion devices. This knowledge will enable the creation and control of fusion fuel under conditions required for future power plants. Our progress is exemplified by breakthroughs at the National Ignition Facility and the Joint European Torus.
Vasilij G. Kiptilyj
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 18 | Number 4 | December 1990 | Pages 583-590
Alpha Particles in Fusion Research | doi.org/10.13182/FST90-A29250
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The capabilities of new methods of fusion alpha-particle diagnostics based on nuclear reactions are discussed. Particularly, the resonant capture reactions between confined fast alpha particles and low-Z artificial impurities in the plasma is examined. In this case, the intensity of the decay gamma rays is proportional to the alpha-particle concentration at resonance energy. Another method is based on Doppler shape analysis of the 4.44-MeV gamma-ray spectra from the 9Be(α, n1γ)12C reaction. Results of an in-beam study of this diagnostic reaction are given. Some questions concerning the gamma spectrometer, a collimator, and a radiation shield are discussed. Estimates of the reaction rates and signal values in the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor, T-14, Compact Ignition Tokamak (CIT), and International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) are presented. In conclusion, the use of gamma spectroscopy in the diagnostics fusion protons in deuterium-deuterium plasma is examined.